Alpaca ranch to host shearing festival

People interested in the 'alpaca lifestyle' will get an opportunity to see some action at the Crescent Moon Ranch Shearing Festival. The event is slated for Saturday, June 21 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the ranch on Lower Bridge Way.

Alpacas of all ages will be on display, the Boutique doors will be wide open for lovers of alpaca fashion garments, and a tri-tip barbeque runs from noon to 2 p.m. Visitors are invited to explore the ranch and ask questions.

The main draw of the day takes place in the big barn, where visitors can watch alpaca fiber progress from an animal's back to the spinner's wheel.

The fiber is popular with those who appreciate fine garments fashioned from natural fiber and alpaca yarn is in demand by hand-knitters.

Shearing takes place on the ranch over the course of several weeks, with over 400 animals to be shorn. According to Debbie Greene, who oversees animal health, shearing season is also the time when animals are closely inspected for any health issues; vaccinations are administered, dental work is done and toenails are trimmed.

Crescent Moon Ranch alpacas are seen at several high caliber alpaca shows throughout the country and enjoy success in both the show and sale ring.

The ranch is located on the corner of Lower Bridge Way and Buckhorn Road. From Sisters, take Hwy. 126 to Holmes Road, go to the end of Holmes Road and turn right onto Lower Bridge Way. The ranch is approximately seven miles east on the right.

For more information visit http://www.crescentmoonranch.com